Leadership Styles In Law Enforcement

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Leadership has a myriad of definitions and styles that have been applied to the law enforcement profession; however, the purpose of this research paper is not to redefine leadership or propose one definition and style as the most suitable one, but to provide an overview of how it is essential and vital in every organization. A published research study says about the definition of leadership that: “A comprehensive review of the literature concluded that there are almost as many definitions of leadership as there are persons who have attempted to define the concept.” (Kingshott, Hughes, Mullendore, & Prinsloo, 2008, p. 62). That statement is echoed in chapter seven, Leadership, of Police Administration: Structures, Processes, and Behavior: “There …show more content…
This scenario supports the proposition that “the paradox of police hierarchy is that autonomy tends to be greatest at the lowest levels of the law enforcement organization where police officers make fundamental decisions on the street, far removed from their supervisors.” (Steinheider, & Wuestewald, 2008, p. 145). Officers are leaders in their respective communities and it is imperative that they see themselves as such and understand the consequences their actions may or may not have, as they may result in damaging an agency for years. Officers also need to be supported and educated by their leadership on the extent of their discretion and authority, because any miscommunication may result in officers feeling that they are left to fend for themselves and mistreatment. Unfortunately, the law enforcement profession is known for its high rate of officer turn over and one identified factor is the lack of leadership and communication from the management staff. A study conducted at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Academy shows: “The analysis revealed that there were indicators of perceptions of unfair treatment and inadequate reward in the special agent trainees' previous law enforcement positions.” (Bowman, Carlson, Colvin, & Green, 2006, p. …show more content…
This greatly dictates their interactions internally and externally. A research study conducted in 2009 compared the interaction of Police Chief’s and County Sheriff’s with their particular local government administrators. The study reflected that Police Chiefs are less independent law enforcement managers when compared to the Sheriffs who are in most cases, elected to office and see themselves as equals to other elected officials. (LaFrance, & Placide, 2010). Notwithstanding how they came to be the top executive, what does not change is that: “Top leadership has a strong effect on employees’ identification with the agency and their perceptions of empowerment.” (Steinheider, et al, 2008, p. 159). This is significant because the top executive represents the agency and thus the beliefs, core values, goals and perceptions of the Chief of Sheriff will be modeled after. It is up to Police Chiefs and Sheriffs to empower their officers as they will in turn, conduct themselves accordingly and represent the agency throughout the community. Executives need to be clear in what they expect from their officers at all levels and in response, officers and employees will want the executive to have their best interest at
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